Carnival Activities

There are many carnival activities available for committees to choose from. Some of the entertainment, such as magicians, clowns and DJ’s may involve a cost. Other activities, such as martial arts or dance troupe demonstrations will not. A third group, which includes bake sales, auctions and cake walks, will produce income. Contests may produce publicity, and sometimes income as well. Many of the activities listed below may be sponsored, so that no expenses are incurred.

Sand Art

Mix in a couple of tables, one or two volunteers, some sand and bottles, and, voila – you have sand art!

Magic Show

Magic Shows are extremely popular at carnivals. Many schools will charge an additional one or two dollars for this activity. Other schools may offer it free, or have the magic show sponsored.

Pony Rides

Pony rides are always a welcome addition to any school carnival. The rides are popular with younger children. When booking this type of activity, be sure the company that brings the ponies has up-to-date health certificates on all their animals. Most schools will pay a flat fee to the pony ride company; others will pay a percentage, often the school receiving 20%.

Hair Coloring

This is one of the easiest carnival activities to have. Simply buy some spray paint (designed for hair painting, of course!), and a few chairs and plastic and you’re ready to go.

Cake Walk

This game is similar to musical chairs, except there are numbered squares or spots instead of chairs. It’s one of the most popular carnival activities. When the music stops, everybody stands on a number and one or two numbers are called out of a hat. The winners get to choose from among the cakes as their prize. As the cakes are donated, this event is a high profit item. Most schools charge one dollar per ticket for this game. The picture above is a recent cake walk that had 20 participants each time.

Face Painting

Face Painting is one of the top carnival activities. Pictured above is an airbrush face painter, who is able to paint three times faster than a standard face painter.

Hair Braiding

This type of activity may be performed by teenagers or young adults and is popular with female attendees.

Demonstrations

Dance Troupes, Martial Arts, Kid’s Comedy Groups, Wrestling Clubs are always popular carnival activities. Above is a picture of a dance troupe during a performance at an elementary school.

Bingo

Bingo is an activity for all age groups. Many older attendees, such as grandparents, enjoy Bingo, and prefer it to most other activities. A sound system is recommended, especially if you expect a large crowd.

Nail Painting

This is another one of those carnival activities that can be managed by teenagers or young adults.